Johnny Marr says Modest Mouse's Isaac Brock is "the greatest lyricist" he's worked with

17 October 2021, 13:00

The former Smiths man has been recalling his time with the Washington band.

Johnny Marr has hailed Isaac Brock as "the greatest lyricist" he's ever worked with.

The Smiths' guitarist heaped praise on the frontman of Modest Mouse - the US band that Marr played with between 2006 and 2008 - and he has opened up on their work together in 2007.

He told Stereogum: "Me and the guys then just became really tight. To have bailed would’ve just been really weird. I stayed in [Modest Mouse], and I loved being in the band.

"There was a brotherhood that is there to this day. Probably the best time of my life. Some supernaturally good shows. I liked my role.

“It’s just a thing that happened in my life that I’m eternally grateful for. And Isaac Brock is the greatest lyricist I’ve ever worked with.

"I’ve seen him write an amazing song, and then make it better, and then make it better again.”

Modest Mouse - Dashboard (Official Music Video)

The 57-year-old musician also opened up on the bond he shares with anyone he works with in that way, and described it as being "in the trenches".

He added: "If I get involved with people, I’m loyal. A brotherhood happens.

"You go in the trenches with people, and you have these intensive days where it means a lot and there’s a lot at stake.”

There could be another chapter for Marr as part of Modest Mouse after he previously suggested their work together is "yet to be finished".

Brock responded in June, and said: "The option’s available to him! I hope [it’s an unfinished chapter]. I love being in a band with Johnny; it’s f*****’ fun…"

And the guitarist replied on Twitter: "Food for thought. Modest Mouse was the best time of my life. Still a great record, great shows."